IN CONVERSATION WITH GIULIA CIANCIO
“Family is the most important thing to me.”
GIULIA CIANCIO
Born in Milan but raised in the province of Venice, Giulia Ciancio describes her journey into modelling as “a story born by chance.”
Introduced to the industry in high school, what started as a serendipitous opportunity evolved into a thriving career that now spans Milan, Miami, Paris, and beyond.
Despite her success, Giulia remains grounded, sharing, “Venice is where my family lives, and family is the most important thing to me—it will always be home.”
Throughout our time together, Giulia reflects on the challenges and achievements of balancing her academic pursuits with the demands of a modelling career.
From her first modelling experience in Shanghai to becoming a Guess Girl and walking the runway at Swim Week in Miami, she opens up about the grit required behind the glamour.
“People think modelling is just about taking pictures, but it’s about adapting to each brand, travelling alone, and always showing your best self.”
Giulia also discusses her personal style, which emphasises elegance and simplicity, her love for family card nights, and how she prioritises self-care in an industry that often demands perfection. As she looks to the future, she’s clear about her goals: “I don’t want to limit myself. My only goal is to be happy and proud of the path I’m on.”
It was a pleasure to sit down with Gulia as she talked honestly about her life as a rising model and how she values character over appearances, embraces life’s challenges, and remains deeply connected to her roots.
VENICE WILL ALWAYS BE MY HOME
I was born in Milan on October 6, 1999. I lived there for the first five years of my life, but then my parents, younger brother, and I moved to the province of Venice. However, part of my heart remains in Sicily, as my father’s family comes from there.
Venice is where I grew up, studied, met my first friends, and experienced my first loves. It was my home until I graduated in 2023.
After graduation, I began modelling full-time. This not only brought me back to Milan but also led to many trips around the world, including Paris, Spain, Miami, New York, and Shanghai.
Despite all this, Venice remains where my family lives, and family is the most important thing to me—Venice will always be my home.
My journey into modelling happened by chance. In my final year of high school, I met an older girl who was already working as a model.
One day, she recommended me for a job, and I accepted. Her mother’s agent noticed me and suggested I start working in modelling.
I didn’t know anything about the industry but decided to give it a try. That decision led to my first experience as a model in Shanghai, where I stayed for four months.
When I returned, I signed with agencies in Milan and Barcelona and continued modelling for a few months but soon realised I wanted to focus on university.
Education has always been a priority for me and central to my life goals. So, in September 2019, I began my university studies in Venice. Shortly after, the COVID-19 pandemic hit.
During that time, many companies and brands in my area needed local models, so I started taking on modelling work again.
What began as small projects grew into more significant opportunities, making it increasingly challenging to balance university and work.
Over the years, I received offers not only from brands but also from prominent agencies in Milan. Eventually, I decided to join Select Model Milan, which still represents me today.
After graduating, I fully immersed myself in the modelling industry, receiving incredible opportunities abroad.
Today, I’m also represented by agencies in Miami and Los Angeles. I’m proud of the path I’ve taken because I managed to complete my studies while growing my career as a model. Now, I am fully dedicated to this profession.
FULFILLING DREAMS I NEVER THOUGHT POSSIBLE
People often misunderstand modelling, thinking it’s just about posing for photos. In reality, it’s about adapting to each brand’s unique communication style.
It requires independence—travelling alone, solving problems on your own, and setting aside personal challenges to present your best self at all times.
I strive to bring positivity to every project, even on difficult days, because I believe in creating a harmonious atmosphere with the team.
One of my greatest achievements has been becoming a Guess Girl. I’ve worked with Guess for nearly two years and have participated in two campaigns—some of the best experiences of my life.
Other memorable moments include my time at Swim Week in Miami. Those seven days were incredibly intense—I barely had time to eat, and the jet lag was exhausting. Yet, I was happy because I knew I was investing in my future and fulfilling dreams I never thought possible, like walking the Miami runway.
Completing my university degree is another accomplishment I’m proud of. It wasn’t easy to balance fashion and academics, and I often found myself studying late into the night.
For now, I’m focusing on my modelling career, but in the future, I’d like to explore opportunities in marketing. It aligns with my work as a model, just from the other side of the camera.
BEING BEAUTIFUL BUT EMPTY DOESN’T APPEAL TO ANYBODY
My personal style has evolved over the years, but simplicity and elegance remain constant. I avoid being flashy or provocative; instead, I aim for refined and sophisticated looks. Whether it’s makeup, hairstyles, or clothing, I value simplicity in its purest form.
When I’m not working, I prioritise spending time with my family since I’m often away for long periods. I love quiet evenings at home playing cards with them—it’s something we can do for hours. Friendships are also essential to me. My closest friends are like family because they truly understand me.
Self-care is another priority. I enjoy spa days, massages, or simply relaxing at home with Netflix and romantic movies
People often tell me they’re pleasantly surprised by my personality when they get to know me. On social media, I might come across as aloof, but in reality, I’m charismatic and positive.
I love it when people remember me for my character rather than my appearance. My family taught me the importance of inner beauty over external looks. Being “beautiful but empty” doesn’t appeal to anyone.
MY ULTIMATE GOAL IS TO BE HAPPY AND PROUD OF THE JOURNEY I’M ON
The fashion world isn’t easy—it’s full of challenges and people who might try to undermine you. I stay focused on my path and surround myself with the right people, those who enrich both my professional and personal life.
Miami holds a special place in my heart, and I can’t wait to return next year. I’m also in love with Paris—working there feels like being in a movie. Every place I’ve travelled to has shaped me and contributed to who I am today.
As for the future, I don’t want to limit myself. I hope to travel even more and perhaps establish myself further in America. My ultimate goal is to be happy and proud of the journey I’m on.
